Display devices

ABSTRACT

A display device includes a base structure, a plurality of modules coupled to the base structure, where each of the modules include a plurality of actuator assemblies. Each of the actuator assemblies is individually controllable to move the actuator assemblies between a retracted state and a plurality of extended states. A controller is coupled to each of the modules and is programmed to control the actuator assemblies to move the actuator assemblies between the retracted state and the plurality of extended states.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of provisional application Ser. No.61/800,611, filed on Mar. 15, 2013, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Billboards and other large displays are an important component of mostadvertising portfolios. As with other real estate, location is key. Mostdisplays are configured to catch the eyes of viewers, which can enhancethe brands shown on the displays. In crowded display areas, it isimportant to make a display distinctive to optimize the impact of thedisplay.

SUMMARY

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, a displaydevice includes a base structure, a plurality of modules coupled to thebase structure, where each of the modules include a plurality ofactuator assemblies. Each of the actuator assemblies is individuallycontrollable to move the actuator assemblies between a retracted stateand a plurality of extended states. A controller is coupled to each ofthe modules and is programmed to control the actuator assemblies to movethe actuator assemblies between the retracted state and the plurality ofextended states.

In accordance with further aspects, a system for displaying contentincludes a display device that has a base structure, a plurality ofmodules coupled to the base structure, with each of the modulesincluding a plurality of actuator assemblies. Each of the actuatorassemblies are individually controllable to move the actuator assembliesbetween a retracted state and a plurality of extended states. At leastone light module is coupled to each of the modules, and a controller iscoupled to each of the modules. The controller is programmed to controlthe actuator assemblies to move the actuator assemblies between theretracted state and the plurality of extended states. A computing deviceis configured to generate content for the display device and includes amemory and a processing unit encoding instructions that, when executedby the processing unit, cause the processing unit to control theactuator assemblies and the light modules.

In accordance with still further aspects of the disclosure, a method forcontrolling a display includes sending a first signal for controlling aplurality of actuator assemblies, with each of the actuator assembliesbeing individually controllable to move the actuator assemblies betweena retracted state and a plurality of extended states. A second signalfor controlling a plurality of light modules is also sent, with at leastone of the light modules being coupled to each of the actuatorassemblies. The first and second signals are synchronized to generate adesired effect on the display device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example display device in an exampleenvironment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example support structure and amodule of the display device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the support structure and module of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a front schematic view of the display device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of example actuator assemblies of thedisplay device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the actuator assemblies of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a single actuator assembly of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the actuator assembly of FIG. 7 in a retractedstate.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the actuator assembly of FIG. 7 in an expandedstate.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator assembly of FIG.7.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another example actuator assembly.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator assembly of FIG.11.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of an example system for controlling thedisplay device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view of an example process for controlling thedisplay device using the system of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a front view of a module of the display device shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the module of FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is another rear perspective view of the module of FIG. 2.

FIG. 18 is a plan view of four LED modules of the display device of FIG.1.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of the LED modules of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a first perspective view of a portion of the LED module ofFIG. 12.

FIG. 21 is a second perspective view of the portion of the LED module ofFIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the portion of the LED module of FIGS. 20and 21.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a grid of the actuator assemblies of FIG. 1.

FIG. 24 is a rear view of the grid of the actuator assemblies of FIG.23.

FIG. 25 is a schematic view of aspects of an example Agency PreviewTool.

FIG. 26 is a schematic view of further aspects of the Agency PreviewTool of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27A is a schematic view of a process for exporting content, andFIG. 27B is an example screen shot from the Agency Preview Tool of FIG.25.

FIG. 28 is a schematic view of aspects of an example Movement SoftwareController.

FIG. 29 is a schematic view of further aspects of the Movement SoftwareController of FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a schematic view of further aspects of the example system ofFIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The examples described herein are related to display devices used foradvertising.

In some examples, the display devices incorporate lighting and movement.The lighting and movement are configured to catch a viewer's attention.This can enhance the impact of the brand shown on the display device.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an example display device 100 is shown.Generally, the display device 100 is mounted on the side 120 of abuilding. In other examples, the display device 100 can be mounted toother structures, such as a billboard structure, or can be configured tobe freestanding.

The display device 100 includes a main display 102 and a side display108. The main display 102 includes a stationary top channel logo area104 (e.g., the stylized “Coca-Cola”) and a dynamic area 106.

The main display 102 and the side display 108 can include lighting toenhance the impact of the display device 100. For example, as describedfurther below, the main display 102 and the side display 108 can includea plurality of elements that are lit. In addition, the dynamic area 106includes a plurality of actuator assemblies that move.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-3 and 15-17, the display device 100includes a base structure 210 upon which a plurality of modules 222 aremounted. The base structure 210 is mounted to the structure upon whichthe display device 100 is mounted. The base structure providesstructural integrity for each of the modules 222 coupled thereto. Thebase structure 210 also provides access to each of the modules 222 forservice and repair, as described further below.

Each of the modules 222 includes a plurality of actuator assemblies 232positioned therein. The use of individual modules 222 allows the displaydevice 100 to be installed in an efficient manner, since the modules 222can be moved and manipulated more easily than the entire display device100. In this example, the modules 222 extend from the base structure 210a distance 218 of approximately four feet, although modules of differentsizes can be used.

The example depicted shows that each of the modules 222 includes amatrix of five rows of five actuator assemblies 232, for a total of 25actuator assemblies 232 in each module 222. This configuration allowsthe actuator assemblies 232 in each of the modules 222 to function as aunit, thereby addressing changes in the environment, including stressescaused by the elements, such as wind, temperature, etc. Because each ofthe modules 222 functions as a unit, such stresses are accommodatedacross the actuator assemblies 232.

In alternative designs, the modules 222 can include more or feweractuator assemblies 232. In the depicted embodiment, some of theactuator assemblies 232 are nonmovable (i.e., stationary), in that theactuator assemblies 232 remain in place and do not move like otheractuator assemblies, as described further below. For example, in someembodiments the actuator assemblies 232 that are nonmovable may beplaced in the area surrounding the top channel logo area 104. In someembodiments, the top two rows of the modules 222 may be stationary orotherwise have actuator assemblies that are nonmovable.

Referring now to FIG. 4, the main display 102 is shown as made up of aplurality of the modules 222. In this embodiment, a height 242 of themain display 102 is 19.6 meters and a width 244 is 12.25 meters,although displays of other dimensions can be used. In this example,there are approximately 1,960 actuator assemblies 232, of which 1,715are movable and 245 are nonmovable.

In this example, the main display 102 has a 12.5 millimeter LED pitchsize (see FIGS. 18-19), a pixel density of 6,400 pixels per squaremeter, with a pixel configuration of 1R, 1G, and 1B per pixel. Asdescribed more below, the display has a large viewing angle, 16-bitcolor processing depth, and is controlled synchronously. Louverstailored to the specific environment (e.g., based upon the sun densityat a particular latitude) can be included to enhance the LED displayduring sunny conditions. The side display 108 can be similarlyconfigured.

For example, FIG. 18 shows four LED modules 316 positioned adjacent toone another. The pitch does not vary between LED modules 316, even witha provided gap, as described further herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-10, each of the actuator assemblies 232 isconfigured to move. Specifically, each of the actuator assemblies 232includes a moving cube 314 movingly mounted to a core 312. The movingcube 314 is made of a plurality of aluminum extruded panels 314 a, 314b, 314 c, 314 d (see FIG. 10) positioned about a holding tube 320. Themoving cube 314 is configured to slide along the holding tube 320 indirections 330, 332.

The moving cube 314 is moved by a linear actuator assembly 318 in thedirections 330, 332 in a plurality of extended positions. As depicted,the actuator assembly 232 a is fully extended in the direction 330, theactuator assembly 232 b is partially extended in the direction 330, andthe actuator assembly 232 c is fully retracted. In this example, themoving cube 314 moves approximately 20 inches when in the fully extendedposition, as depicted by the actuator assembly 232 a.

For example, in the fully retracted state shown in FIG. 8, the actuatorassembly 232 a has a length 362 of approximately 1,000 millimeters. Inthe fully expanded state shown in FIG. 9, the actuator assembly 232 chas a length 364 of approximately 1,500 millimeters. However, otherlengths could be used depending on the amount of movement required. Forexample, the actuator assembly could be configured such that it extendsmore than about 20 inches or less than about 20 inches.

In this example, the linear actuator assembly 318 includes a driver witha servo motor. The servo motor is electrically controlled and moves themoving cube 314 in the directions 330, 332 to any of a plurality ofextended positions. The movement can be precisely controlled, so thatthe position of the moving cube 314 is known. For example, in oneembodiment, control is as precise as 0.0079 inches, with a positionrange of 1 to 29,000.

In some examples, the linear actuator assembly 318 is a F12-BC made byW-Robit of Taiwan. Such a linear actuator assembly 318 can drive up to44 pounds, with a maximum drive speed of 40 inches per second. Inanother example, a PAC-UGT040D actuator made by PBC Linear of Roscoe,Ill., is used. The motor of the linear actuator assembly 318 is a BCHU04 Motor manufactured by Schneider Electric of Palatine, Ill. The motorincludes a LXM23A servo driver system and Modicon M258 logic controller,both also manufactured by Schneider Electric. In still other examples,the motor is a SM23165DT motor made by Moog Animatics, of Santa Clara,Calif.

A Light-Emitting Diode (LED) module 316 is mounted to each of the movingcubes 314. The LED module 316 includes a plurality of LEDs, such as anNSSM032T LED module made by Nichia Corporation of Japan. Such an LEDmodule is a 3-in-1 SMD LED, although other types can be used. In thisexample, the LED module 316 is 346 mm in height by 346 mm in width. TheLED module 316 is configured to provide a plurality of colors, and eachLED module 316 on each of the actuator assemblies 232 is individuallycontrollable, as described below.

In example embodiments, the LED modules 316 can be configured to displayone or a plurality of colors. For example, the LED modules 316 can beconfigured to display text, pictures, or other effects. By grouping theLED module 316, a larger effect, such as a larger picture or text, canbe created on the main display 102.

In other embodiments, LED modules 316 could be placed on the sides(e.g., mounted on panels 314 b and 314 d), top (314 c) and bottom (314a) of the moving cubes 314 near the end of the moving cubes 314. In suchan embodiment, the light emitted from the LED modules 316 placed on theside, top and bottom of the moving cubes 314 could be seen when lookingat the display device 100 from various angles. This embodiment, forexample, would provide more continuous light when two adjacent movingcubes 314 are positioned at different distances and the display 100 isviewed from various angles.

In yet another alternative, the brightness of the lights in the LEDmodules 316 is configurable to create different appearances. Forexample, the lights can be dimmed or otherwise dulled to form depth andother visual effects, particularly around the edges of the displaydevice 100.

A gap 317 (see FIGS. 18-19) is provided between adjacent LED modules316. In one example, this gap 317 is four millimeters. This gap 317 issmall enough so that it is indiscernible from the viewing distance forthe display device 100. Further, the gap 317 is an air gap, so that anydebris or other undesired materials does not get stuck between adjacentLED modules 316. Further, the gap 317 is configured to maintain the 12.5millimeter pitch between adjacent LEDs 319.

FIGS. 20-22 illustrate aspects of an example of the LED module 316. Theillustrated LED module 316 includes a conduit 340 and conduit joint 342sandwiched between two conduit brackets 344, 346. The conduit 340provides the connections to the LEDs of the LED module 316. A wire clamp348 connects a conduit bearing 350 to the conduit joint 342 and conduit340 for coupling the conduit 340 and the LEDs connected thereto to acable. One or more fasteners 352 fix the conduit 340 to the conduitjoint 342.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate further aspects of an example of the LEDmodules 316 arranged in the matrix of five rows and five columns ofmodules 316. A cable 354 connects each LED module 316 to a localcontroller 370. Each LED module 316 has a cable 354 connected betweenthe conduit bearing 350 and the local controller 370. One localcontroller 370 is provided for each matrix of 25 LED modules 316 asshown in FIG. 24. The local controller 370 is supported, for example, onthe base structure 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the localcontroller 370 is mounted on a horizontal transom 360 of the basestructure 210. Each cable 354 has a sufficient length so as to allow theLED module 316 to remain connected to the local controller 370 in itsfully extended position and its fully retracted position. The cables 354are fastened to various portions of the linear actuator 318 to stow thecable 354 as desired to allow the LED module to move as desired.

In these examples, the construction of the actuator assemblies 232allows for ease in access and maintenance. Specifically, the way theactuator assemblies 232 are coupled to the modules 222 allows individualactuator assemblies 232 to be removed individually from a rear of thedisplay device 100. For example, FIG. 17 depicts a rear view of one ofthe modules 222, from which the actuator assemblies 232 are accessible.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-12, an alternative linear actuator assembly432 is shown. The actuator assembly 432 is similar to the actuatorassembly 232 described above, except that the linear actuator assembly318 is mounted to a side of the holding tube 320.

Referring again to FIGS. 15 and 16, some examples of the display device102 include a mechanical locking arrangement for securely locking theactuator assemblies 232 in the retracted state. This could be desirable,for instance, during extremely severe weather. A rod latch 250 isslidably mounted adjacent a rear portion of the actuator assemblies 232with a plurality of mounting brackets 252. One of the rod latches 250extends down each column of actuator assemblies 232. Thus, theillustrated module 222 includes five rod latches 250 corresponding tothe five columns of actuator assemblies 232. In some examples, each ofthe rod latches 250 extend down the entire column of the active portion106 of the display device 100. At the top of the module 222, an actuator254 is rotatably supported by the base structure 210. Each of the rodlatches 250 is connected to a respective one of the actuators 254 suchthat the rod latches 250 move linearly up and down in response tomovement of the actuators 254. The rod latches 250 include a pluralityof latch hooks 256 attached thereto. Each of the rod latches 250 has anumber of latch hooks 256 attached thereto corresponding to each row ofthe module 222. Thus, in the illustrated example, five latch hooks 256are shown connected to each rod latch 250. In embodiments where the rodlatches 250 extend down the entire columns of active portion 106, therewould be a latch hook 256 for every row of actuator assemblies 232 ineach module 222.

The rod latches 250 are movable via the actuators 254 to move the rodlatches 250 to selectively engage the latch hooks 256 into and out ofengagement with the corresponding actuator assemblies 232. In theillustrated example, the rod latches 250 are threadably received by thebase structure 210, such that rotating the actuators 254 in onedirection moves the rod latches 250 up, and rotating them in the otherdirection moves the rod latches 250 down. In the example shown in FIGS.15 and 16, when one of the rod latches 250 is moved upwards by theactuator 254, the latch hooks 256 engage the actuator assemblies tomechanically lock them in place.

The display device 100 may include various other features to obtain andhold the attention of individuals capable of viewing the display device.These features could be facilitated by an interactive module 245 locatedon the display device 100 or be operably connected to it. For example,the interactive module 245 may include or be operably connected tosensors such as, microphones, cameras, motion detectors, moisturesensors, light sensors, etc. Additional features may include speakers,lasers, or other devices capable of producing light shows, which couldalso be used to attract and hold the attention of individuals. Suchfeatures could be operated separately or may be integrated with othersensors such that the display device 100 choreographs its displaydepending on input from the various sensors of the interactive module245. For example, the interactive module 245 can include speakers andlasers controlled by a computing device that can choreograph the varioussensors, speakers, or lasers to make the display device more attractiveand entertaining.

In other examples, sensors, such as moisture, wind, temperature, etc.sensors, can be used to detect certain weather patterns. For example,the sensors can be used to detect certain weather conditions in whichoperation of the actuator assemblies is not advisable (icing conditionsor extreme wind conditions, specifically). In such scenarios, thesensors detect the adverse weather condition and stop movement of theactuator assemblies until such time as the detected weather statepasses. In some implementations, a delay period is included such thatmovement of the actuator assemblies is not restarted until somepredetermined time passes in which the adverse weather condition is notdetected. This prevents the actuator assemblies from repeatedly startingand stopping, for example, during periods of variable wind gusts.

In other examples, the interactive module 245 is programmed to transmitsound (e.g., music, voice, advertisements) so that passers can tune to aparticular radio frequency to listen on their radios. In yet otherexamples, the interactive module 245 can be programmed to communicatewirelessly (e.g., through Bluetooth or via the Internet) with viewers'smartphones. In this example, the viewer can access content, such as aweb site, that allows the viewer to upload or otherwise stream contentthat can be displayed on the display device 100. Such content could bepictures, etc.

In another example, the interactive module 245 could include microphonessuch that it could pay “live” sound. Such microphones could bedirectionally focused such that they could focus in on a particularsound source. In this regard the display device could include softwaresuch that the display device could be interactive with those viewing thedisplay device's advertisement based on any number of factors such asmovement, sound, recognizing elements in its surroundings, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 13, an example system 500 for controlling thedisplay device 100 is shown. In this example, a computing device 502communicates with each of the actuator assemblies 232 through a network504. Specifically, the computing device 502 communicates through arouter 506 to a plurality of Ethernet to DMX converters 508 which, inturn, communicate with the display device 100 through a plurality of DMXsplitters 510. Other configurations are possible.

In this example, the computing device 502 is a local or remote computingdevice, such as a desktop, laptop, or tablet computer. The computingdevice 502 can use a standard communication protocol, such as DMX,CANOPEN, Ethernet or RS485 interface, to control the display device 100.

The control by the computing device 502 can include programming themovement of each of the actuator assemblies 232. In one example, anapplication programming interface (API) is provided that assists in theprogramming of the movement of the actuator assemblies 232.

In one example, the linear actuator assembly 318 is controlled by thecomputing device 502 according to a percentage of extension for themoving cube 314. For example, the computing device 502 defines apercentage, such as 0 percent, 10 percent, 25 percent, 50 percent, 75percent, and/or 100 percent for the moving cube 314 at a given point intime. The percentage is translated to instructions transmitted to theappropriate linear actuator 318 to extend or retract the moving cube 314the desired amount. By defining a changing percentage over time, themovement of the moving cube 314 can be choreographed, as desired.

In addition, the computing device 502 can define colors to be displayedby the LED module carried by the moving cube 314. The colors of the LEDson the LED modules 316 can be changed to create the desired effect.

Since each of the actuator assemblies 232 can be individually controlledseparately, the movement and color of each of the actuator assemblies232 can be controlled to create patterns or other visual effects for thedisplay device 100.

For example, the actuator assemblies 232 in a certain area of thedisplay can be extended and retracted in coordination to give theappearance of movement of the display device 100. In one such example,the actuator assemblies 232 are controlled to provide a wave-like effectacross the display device 100. In another example, the control israndomized, so that the actuator assemblies 232 move in random patterns.Other configurations and patterns are possible.

By controlling the display device 100 in this manner, the overall visualimpact of the display device 100 is increased. Specified patterns can beused to further enhance the visual effect of the display device 100,thereby catching the eye of a viewer.

In some examples, the patterns are configured to make certain shapes anddepictions. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the actuator assemblies 232in the dynamic area 106 are patterned to represent the shape of acontoured bottle. To accomplish this, each of the actuator assemblies232 is controlled to extend and/or retract a certain distance to formthe pattern of the bottle. An endless number of shapes and depictionscan be created in this manner. In addition, the shapes can be used tomorph over time into a choreographed series of shapes.

For example, the computing device 502 can be programmed to createvarious shapes on the display device 100 depending on the time of day,as well as control the sequence of those shapes. The sequence can bechoreographed or randomized, as desired. For example, in one embodiment,the computing device 502 can control the sign to depict fluid flowingout of a bottle. Many other examples are possible.

In addition, the computing device 502 may also control other aspects ofthe display device 100, such as microphones, speakers, cameras or othersensors, such as motion detectors, light sensors, and moisture sensors.For example, the computing device 502 could be configured such that itcontrols cameras located on or near the display device 100 such that itcould display images or video a camera captures. The computing device502 may also control speakers located on or near the sign such that itcan play music or other desired sounds, such as sounds obtained by amicrophone. Thus the display device 100 would be able to play storedsound, stream sound from the internet, or also play “live” sounddetected by the microphone.

In addition, the computing device 502 may be equipped with videorecognition software such that, for example, the camera could recognizea passerby and focus on and display that individual on the display 100.In addition, the computing device may be configured or programmed toplay stored sounds at relevant times to communicate with, for example,the individual being displayed on the display device 100 by alsocontrolling the speakers to project relevant sounds, slogans or speech.In this aspect of one example embodiment the computing device 502 allowsthe sign to be interactive with those in its surroundings and drawingmore attention to the display device 100.

The computing device 502 may also control other sensors placed on thedisplay, such as for example, motion detectors, light sensors, andmoisture sensors. The display device may also include lasers that can becontrolled by the computing device 502 such that the display device canproduce a laser light show. The computing device may also integrate oneor more of the sensors, or the information obtained therefrom, speakers,lasers, etc. to work in combination to enhance the display device 100.In yet another example embodiment of the display 100, the computingdevice 502 could be connected to the Internet and obtain a variety ofinformation and display it on the display 100, such as weather, news,etc. Such sensors, such as a light sensor, could be used to adjust thebrightness of the display device 100, for example, to adjust thebrightness of the LEDs depending on the weather or time of day or night.Likewise the microphones could also be used to adjust the volume of thespeakers to the appropriate level given the particular surroundings.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an example process 600 for controlling thedisplay device 100 is shown. Some of the operations in this process 600can be implemented, for example, by the computing device 502.

At operation 610, a video creation software application such as athree-dimensional visualization software is used to author content forthe display device 100. The software, which is executed by the computingdevice 502 (or any other computing device, not necessarily connected tothe display device 100), allows for the creation and/or manipulation ofvideo content that will be used to control the display device 100. Thesoftware optionally includes an emulator that depicts the display device100 to allow a user to author different content for the display device.One example of such content is an advertisement featuring a bottle. Theadvertisement can define the shape, motion, and color of the bottle tobe depicted on the display device 100.

Next, at operation 620, the content is edited into video (i.e., color)and motion components. This is accomplished by extracting the video andmotion components so that dual synchronized video files are formed. Thefirst video file is for controlling the light display (the LED modules),and the second video file is for controlling the motion (i.e., themoving cubes).

The first video file is transferred to operations 630, 640, whereat theLED modules of the display device 100 are controlled. This includescontrolling which of the LED modules are active and any contentdisplayed on the LED modules. In this example, the LED modules arecontrolled using the GigE protocol.

The second video file is transferred to operation 650, whereat themotion file is interpreted and translated into the DMX protocol. Thisprotocol is, in turn, used at operation 660 to control movement of themoving cubes of the actuator assemblies by the servo motor.

By synchronizing the first and second video files, the visual and motioncomponents of the display device 100 are synchronized to create thedesired effects as defined by the author.

In these examples, the computing device 502 includes one or moreprocessing units and computer readable media. Computer readable mediaincludes physical memory such as volatile memory (such as RAM),non-volatile memory (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.) or somecombination thereof. Additionally, the computing device can include massstorage (removable and/or non-removable) such as a magnetic or opticaldisks or tape. An operating system, such as Linux or Windows, and one ormore application programs can be stored on the mass storage device. Thecomputing device can include input devices (such as a keyboard andmouse) and output devices (such as a monitor and printer).

The computing device also includes network connections to other devices,computers, networks, servers, etc., such as through the network 504. Inexample embodiments, the computing device communicates with othercomponents through one or more networks, such as a local area network(LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, or a combinationthereof. Communications can be implemented using wired and/or wirelesstechnologies.

The display device 100 is configured to be resistant to the forces ofnature. For example, the display device (including the base structure210 and the modules 222) is configured to withstand rain and wind as thedisplay device 100 is used outside during the different seasons. Asnoted herein, in certain weather conditions, certain functions of thedisplay device 100 can be suspended temporarily.

FIG. 25 illustrates further example aspects of the system 500 andprocess 600 shown in FIGS. 13 and 14. A preview tool, sometimes referredto herein as the “Agency Preview Tool” (APT), is provided in somedisclosed implementations. The APT 700 allows agencies preparing contentfor the display device 100 to preview content as it will appear on thedisplay device 100. Additionally, embodiments of the APT 700 correctlyformat video content that is to be exported for display on the device100 to ensure its compatibility with the various components of thesystem 500. Among other things, this allows creative preview andexperimentation while creating new content, visual verification ofcorrect synchronization between the video content, and the movementcontent that drives the movement of the actuator assemblies 232. In someexamples, the APT 700 further checks to insure technical compliance ofthe created content with the physical capabilities and limits of thedisplay device 100. For instance, the APT 700 may verify that thecontent to be displayed does not require the actuator assemblies 232 tomove faster than they are capable of moving. Content to be displayed isexported in a format ready for integration, including files with contentsuitable for display on the display device 100, encoded module movementcontent, a sign preview, and metadata containing information such as theestimated power consumption of the content, for example.

Embodiments of the APT 700 receive as inputs a display video intended tobe shown on the LED modules 316, and a movement video which is anencoded representation of the LED module movement. As shown in FIG. 25,the APT 700 receives the display and movement videos from a videoediting application 702. In certain implementations, the movement videois a movie that matches the display video's dimensions but is a blackand white or greyscale video. Black represents an actuator assembly 232that is fully retracted, and white represents an actuator assemblymodule 232 that is fully extended. The motion control video is discussedfurther below.

FIG. 26 illustrates further aspects of an example APT 700. The contentand motion video files are provided from the video editor 702 to a filestorage system 704. The user selects the desired video files from thefile storage 704, and the selected files 712 are loaded to a previewprocess 714 via a batch load process 716. Some versions of the APT 700estimate and/or simulate additional information. In the APT shown inFIG. 26, for example, power consumption by the display device 100 isestimated during the batch load process 716, and the user may beinformed if power consumption for the provided display content equals orexceeds a threshold. Additionally, content to be displayed may beanalyzed for excessive movement. During preview of the display, the APTmay display inline warning/error messages identifying content thatcontains excessive movement.

Examples of the APT 700 further provide the ability to export thecontent once the user has completed creating and previewing it. With thesystem illustrated in FIG. 25, the APT 700 outputs content over anetwork such as the internet 710 to a device controlling the display100, such as the computing device 502. Upon selection by the user inprocess 720, content to be exported is validated in a validation process722 prior to export. If content to be exported is found invalid (powerconsumption or actuator movement is outside predetermined thresholds,for example) the user is notified via the preview process 714.

Valid export data 724 include, for example, a file with video correctlyformatted for display by the LED controllers 370, and a file with videocorrectly formatted for interpretation for movement by the actuatorassemblies 232.

As noted above, some embodiments of the APT 700 provide the interfacefor including actuator assembly 232 movement along with the displayedvideo content. End users may either create movement to go along withtheir display videos using a video editing application 702 of choice, orthey may select default movement files provided within the APT. Forexample, the APT 700 may include a library of pre-generated movementvideos that define predetermined movement patterns available for usersof the APT 700.

Embodiments of the APT 700 are configured to verify that the video andmotion files are the same length. If the files are not the same length,various solutions may be employed. For example, if the content video islonger than motion video, an error message is presented to the userinforming them if they continue the motion content will be looped. Ifthe motion video is longer than the content video, an error message ispresented to the user informing them if they continue the motion contentwill be truncated.

To combine the content and movement video files to simulate the videoand motion together, both a content video file and correspondingmovement file are loaded to the APT 700 from the editing application702. For the content video file, the APT 700 checks for the appropriatefile type, length, etc. in the validation process 722. Each video frameis read in sequence and converted to an image for manipulation by athree dimensional simulator. As noted above, the disclosed exampledisplay device 100 includes a grid having movable LED modules 316. Thecontent video file is thus split into a corresponding grid for displayon the individual LED modules 316 of each module 222. The movement fileis the same size as the content video file, and is also split into acorresponding grid.

FIG. 27A illustrates further aspects of the preview process. The userselects files to be loaded from the file storage 704. Embodiments of theAPT 700 allow a user to preview content in a three dimensionalsimulation as it will appear on the display device 100 according tovarious display conditions such as various distances, angles, anddaylight conditions (sunny, overcast, evening, etc.). For example, theAPT 700 may be configured to provide previews simulating the displaydevice 100 from distances of 70 feet, 150 feet, and 250 feet.Accordingly, as depicted in FIG. 27, the user selects can selecteddesired display criteria 734 for the three dimensional simulation 732.FIG. 27B illustrates a screen shoot 730 of an example APT 700, showingexamples of such user choices such as the desired time of day, cameraposition, colors for the stationary 104 display (channel letters),colors for and side panel 180 areas, etc. After previewing, the user mayexport the files for display 720.

As noted above in conjunction with FIG. 13, motion content is sent tothe display device 100 via DMX splitters 510. In some exampleimplementations, the movement software controller (MSC) provides themovement information that is sent to the actuator assemblies 232 via theDMX splitters 510. FIG. 28 illustrates aspects of an example MSC 800,which includes components that manage and communicate with the actuatorassemblies 232. As shown in FIG. 28, the MSC 800 receives the exporteddata (motion video) 724 as verified by the APT 700, and converts themotion video data to a format suitable for controlling the actuatorassemblies 232. The movement control data are then sent to the displaydevice via the DMX splitters 510.

In certain implementations, the MSC 800 is installed at the location ofthe display device 100 and provides operational functionality for themovement of the actuator assemblies 232. In some embodiments, the DMXprotocol (DM512) is used for communicating to the actuator assemblies232. The signals output by the MSC are thus converted to DMXinstructions suitable for controlling the actuator assemblies 232. Insome embodiments, the LightFactory control system from dreamsolutions ofAuckland, New Zealand is used to convert the greyscale video signal datainto DMX512 instructions.

FIG. 29 illustrates further aspects of an example of the MSC 800. TheMSC 800 receives the motion video data that includes the information forcontrolling movement of the actuator assemblies 232, for example, via aDVI cable 802. In some implementations, the greyscale motion video is a1200×1600 30 fps video accessed via a capture card 804. The greyscalevideo data are converted to motion data frame by frame in a conversionprocess 806. The movement video signal is captured at 30 fps, and eachvideo frame is converted to an image for manipulation by the MSC 800.The video frames will be converted to module data split into a grid tomatch the grid of the display device 100, with an individual value foreach actuator assembly that defines the position of the actuatorassembly 232. This is then used as the “movement” values for thecorresponding actuator assemblies 232 that move the LED modules 316 inthe grid. In one example, the movement values range from 1 (black,actuator assembly 232 fully retracted) to 51,000 (white, actuatorassembly 232 fully extended).

A conversion process 808 converts the motion data to visual data, andthe MSC 800 displays the motion data as a visual output (the greyscaledata is displayed to the MSC monitor 810). Each frame of movement datais converted to a greyscale red, green and blue value. This greyscalevalue is drawn to the screen 810 as 28 pixel wide by 28 pixel highsquares arranged in a grid (exactly like the movement video fileexported from the APT 700). The visual motion data is converted to aninternal representation of motion. The greyscale value for video foreach module is converted into a numeric value between 0 and 255 (0 beingcompletely black and 255 being fully white). The greyscale numeric valueis then converted to DMX512 instructions such that the numeric valuescorrespond to the extension of the actuator assemblies 232 as describedabove.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 29, the MSC 800 includes a motionpanel process 812 that communicates with a motion panel 820 and anenvironmental process 814 that communicates with additional sensors,such as one or more environmental sensors. The motion panel 820, forexample, provides a physical panel for overriding the actuator assembly232 movement. It includes physical switches that are mapped to the MSC800 to override the control of the actuator assemblies 232 formaintenance, etc. Some embodiments include a master on/off switch thatcontrols all of the actuator assemblies, a series of grid controlswitches that controls individual modules 222 for actuator assembly 232replacement or cleaning. The MSC 800 receives instructions from thepanel 820 and modifies the incoming movement video signal to disable orenable the desired actuator assemblies 232. Various mechanical testmodes are included to ensure the mechanical functionality of allmodules, including, for example, testing movement speed, distance, etc.of the actuator assemblies.

In the some examples, the environmental sensors include a weather server822 that provides data regarding weather conditions such as wind speed,temperature, humidity, etc. During normal operation, the MSC 800regularly requests updates (for example, each second) from the motionpanel and environmental servers 820,822. In some implementations, eachof these services has a separate timeout period (e.g., 60 seconds forthe maintenance panel 820, 30 seconds for the weather sensors 822,824).If the service returns a negative status response during the entiretimeout period, the MSC 800 will disable movement of the actuatorassemblies 232. The MSC 800 will enable movement once the web servicehas again returned a positive status response for the entire timeoutperiod. Additionally, if the web service is completely unresponsiveduring this timeout period, the MSC 800 will disable movement. The MSC800 will enable movement once the web service has again been responsivefor the entire timeout period.

In some implementations, the MCS 800 further includes a power usagedetection process that monitors power consumption of the display device100. For example, a power consumption threshold parameter may bedetermined and used as an input to the MSC 800. Power usage is monitoredfor module movement, LEDs, and other ancillary components. If powerusage exceeds the threshold parameter, a warning or message is sent toan event log 826.

FIG. 30 illustrates a further example of the system 500. The videocontent file for controlling the display on the LED modules and thegreyscale video providing movement information are sent to media players901,902,903 corresponding to the stationary display portion 104, sidedisplays 108, and the main, dynamic area 160 of the display device. Insome implementations, the side displays 108 do not include the actuatorassemblies 232, and instead have static LED panels 316. Thus, the mediaplayers 901, 902 for the static portion 104 and the side displays 108only receive the display video for controlling the output of the LEDpanels in those portions of the display device 100, while the mediaplayer 903 corresponding to the active portion 104 of the display device100 receives both the content and movement videos. If different contentis displayed on the respective side displays 108, respective LEDcontrollers 902 may be provided. The content video is then received byLED controllers 911,912,913, which in turn distribute the contentinformation to the local controllers 370 connected to the individual LEDmodules 316. The MSC 800 receives the greyscale video from the mediaplayer 903 over DVI, and the motion data is converted to DMX motionsignals that are sent to a DMX splitter 860 over DMX512 for controllingthe individual actuator assemblies 232 for moving the LED modules 316.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limiting. Those skilledin the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes thatmay be made to the embodiments described above without departing fromthe true spirit and scope of the disclosure or the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A display device, comprising: a main display, themain display including lighting in both a stationary area and a dynamicarea, the stationary area including at least one logo graphic; a basestructure; a plurality of movable modules mounted to the base structureso as to form the dynamic area of the main display, each one of theplurality of movable modules including at least one actuator assemblypositioned therein, with each at least one actuator assembly beingindividually controllable to move between a retracted state and aplurality of extended states; and a plurality of non-movable modulesmounted to the base structure so as to form the stationary area of themain display.
 2. The display device of claim 1, further comprising aside display, the side display including a plurality of lit elements tofurther enhance the display device.
 3. The display device of claim 1,further comprising a plurality of light modules coupled to each at leastone actuator assembly.
 4. The display device of claim 3, wherein theplurality of light modules each includes a plurality of light-emittingdiodes, with each of the plurality of light-emitting diodes providing aplurality of colors.
 5. The display device of claim 1, furthercomprising a controller coupled to each one of the plurality of movablemodules, the controller being programmed to control each at least oneactuator assembly as each at least one actuator assembly moves betweenthe retracted state and the plurality of extended states.
 6. The displaydevice of claim 5, wherein the controller accesses a video file todetermine a desired state from among the retracted state and theplurality of extended states for each at least one actuator assembly. 7.The display device of claim 1, wherein each at least one actuatorassembly includes: a stationary core; a holding tube coupled to thestationary core; a moving cube movably coupled to the holding tube; andan actuator coupled between the holding tube and the moving cube, theactuator being programmed to move the moving cube between the retractedstate and the plurality of extended states.
 8. The display device ofclaim 7, wherein the moving cube includes a plurality of panelsremovably coupled to one another and sized to be positioned about theholding tube.
 9. The display device of claim 7, wherein the actuator isa linear actuator, and wherein the linear actuator includes a servomotor positioned to slide the moving cube along the holding tube betweenthe retracted state and the plurality of extended states.
 10. A systemfor displaying content, the system comprising: a display deviceincluding: a main display, the main display including lighting in both astationary area and a dynamic area, the stationary area including atleast one logo graphic; a base structure; a plurality of movable modulesmounted to the base structure so as to form the dynamic area of the maindisplay, each one of the plurality of movable modules including at leastone actuator assembly positioned therein, with each at least oneactuator assembly being individually controllable to move between aretracted state and a plurality of extended states; a plurality ofnon-movable modules mounted to the base structure so as to form thestationary area of the main display; and a controller coupled to eachone of the plurality of movable modules, the controller being programmedto control each at least one actuator assembly as each at least oneactuator assembly moves between the retracted state and the plurality ofextended states; a computing device configured to generate content forthe display device, the computing device including memory; and aprocessing system encoding instructions that, when executed by theprocessing system, cause the processing system to control each at leastone actuator assembly.
 11. The system of claim 10, further comprising aside display, the side display including a plurality of lit elements tofurther enhance the display device.
 12. The system of claim 10, furthercomprising a plurality of light modules coupled to each at least oneactuator assembly.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the plurality oflight modules each includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes, witheach of the plurality of light-emitting diodes providing a plurality ofcolors.
 14. The system of claim 12, wherein the computing device isprogrammed to generate content for controlling the display device, thecontent including first content configured to control motion of each atleast one actuator assembly and second content configured to controlcontent displayed by the plurality of light modules, wherein the firstcontent is a first video file that controls the motion of each at leastone actuator assembly and the second content is a second video file thatcontrols the content displayed by the plurality of light modules, withthe first and second contents being synchronized so that the motionmatches the content.
 15. The system of claim 10, wherein each at leastone actuator assembly includes: a stationary core; a holding tubecoupled to the stationary core; a moving cube movably coupled to theholding tube; and an actuator coupled between the holding tube and themoving cube, the actuator being programmed to move the moving cubebetween the retracted state and the plurality of extended states. 16.The system of claim 15, wherein the moving cube includes a plurality ofpanels removably coupled to one another and sized to be positioned aboutthe holding tube.
 17. The system of claim 15, wherein the actuator is alinear actuator, and wherein the linear actuator includes a servo motorpositioned to slide the moving cube along the holding tube between theretracted state and the plurality of extended states.
 18. A method forcontrolling a display device, the display device including a maindisplay, the main display including a stationary area and a dynamicarea, the stationary area including at least one logo graphic, themethod comprising: sending a first signal for controlling at least oneactuator assembly, the first signal being a first video file thatcontrols the motion of the at least one actuator assembly, with the atleast one actuator assembly being individually controllable to movebetween a retracted state and a plurality of extended states; sending asecond signal for controlling at least one light module, the secondsignal being a second video file that controls the content displayed bythe at least one light module, with the at least one light module beingcoupled to the at least one actuator assembly; synchronizing the firstand second signals to generate a desired effect on the display device;displaying a three dimensional visualization of the display device;generating three dimensional content from the three dimensionalvisualization; and controlling the at least one actuator and the atleast one light module using the three dimensional content.
 19. Themethod of claim 18, wherein the at least one actuator assembly includes:a stationary core; a holding tube coupled to the stationary core; amoving cube movably coupled to the holding tube; and an actuator coupledbetween the holding tube and the moving cube, the actuator beingprogrammed to move the moving cube between the retracted state and theplurality of extended states.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein themoving cube includes a plurality of panels removably coupled to oneanother and sized to be positioned about the holding tube.